We are saddened to hear about the passing of Tony Mills who died after a six month battle with terminal pancreatic cancer. The former TNT and SHY vocalist was 57-years-old. The news of his death was confirmed by his wife, Linda, who issued the following statement on Facebook:
“Anthony Paul Mills
07.07.1962-18.09.2019
It is with a shattered heart that I announce the passing of my loving husband and best friend Tony Mills. He was diagnosed with terminal pancreatic cancer in April of this year and lived his life to the fullest until he exhaled for the last time in my arms. He wanted to live, but wasn’t afraid of death.
Most will know him through his incredible contribution to the music world as a singer in bands like Shy and TNT as well as a solo artist and session vocalist. He leaves behind him a legacy that will live on for many lifetimes.
Those people closest to him will also know him as a gentle and kind soul, a dedicated husband with a love for the quiet life, his animals and his motorbikes. His sense of humour was always on point. His last summer was the happiest in his life, at the end of each day he exclaimed “It’s been another fantastic day!” He spent a lot of time in his workshop fixing up his dirtbike so he could ride it later this autumn. The evening before he passed, he managed to whisper:
“I’ve had a good life. I’ve had a GOOD life. I’m just a bit pissed about the bike.”
Linda Mills”
Mills released his final solo album, Beyond the Law, this past June and knew it was going to be his last. Over the course of the last six months, Mills launched a personal blog for fans to see updates on his progress. Earlier last week, the late singer was awarded the prestigious Rockheim Hall of Fame trophy.
The vocalist was part of SHY since 1983’s Once Bitten…Twice… up until 2005’s Sunset and Vine. He joined TNT back in 2006 and worked on 2007’s The New Territory, 2008’s Atlantis, and 2010’s A Farewell to Arms. He left the group back in 2013 when Tony Harnell rejoined the band.
Our thoughts go out to Mills’ family and friends during this difficult time.
